15 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Financial District (Local's Guide) (2024)

If you’re looking for the best things to do in the Financial District, you’ve come to the right place. The Financial District (also known as FiDi), is the oldest neighborhood in New York City, making it a goldmine for history buffs.

Historic 200-year-old buildings rub shoulders with soaring skyscrapers (including the tallest building in the western hemisphere). Let’s cover the best things to see while visiting the Financial District in Lower Manhattan!

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on. Don’t have time?Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC,hands down.

Feel free to follow along my daily NYC adventures!

Best Things to Do in the Financial District in NYC

Admire the New York Stock Exchange

• Website: NYSE
• Address: 11 Wall Street, New York

New York City is synonymous with financial power and the iconic New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) deserves most of the credit. A symbol of capitalism, the historic edifice, completed in 1903, houses the world’s largest stock exchange (the listed companies have a combined value of over $30 trillion!).

The trading floor influences economies around the world, but it’s no longer open to the public (after the 9/11 terrorist attacks). But honestly, even just seeing the building from the outside is worth visiting the Financial District.

The New York Stock Exchange made our list of the Best Christmas Trees in New York City.

Celebrate an Occasion at Overstory

• Website: Overstory
• Address: 70 Pine St 64th Floor, New York, NY 10005

When I first saw a photo of Overstory it looked fake – too good to be true. Investigating it further it I knew it must be wildly expensive, or surely you need to book a place like this years in advance, or maybe it’s a private bar. Nope, nope, and nope.

Situated on the 64th floor of 70 Pine, Overstory is the kind of Financial District bar that tourists imagine exist all over New York City and locals somehow don’t know about.

The views at Overstory are hands down the best views from a bar in New York City I’ve ever witnessed first-hand or personally know about, and I’ve been to a lot of them. Not only are the views epic but you can experience them outside on a well-appointed balcony that overlooks the city not to mention two star Michelin restaurant one floor below.

Visiting Overstory is worth adding to your list of things to do in the Financial District for the views alone. Buying a couple drinks is cheaper than visiting the top observation decks in New York City.

Visit Alexander Hamilton’s Final Resting Place

• Address: 89 Broadway, New York, NY 10006

Hamilton fan? if so, Trinity Church may ring a bell. This is the church where Alexander Hamilton, his wife Eliza and son Phillip, are buried. Hamilton served as the first United States Secretary of Treasury and was recently resurrected from the history books thanks to the hit Broadway Musical Hamilton.

Founded in 1697 Trinity Church was once the tallest building in the country (thanks to the 280-foot bell tower). Today visitors can admire the old-school wooden pews and stunning stained glass window that characterize this famous and church in NYC.

Local’s Tip: If you enjoy the sound of pipe organs swing by the Pipes at One recitals held every Friday at 1pm (one of the best things to do in the Financial District).

Heads up! Hamilton is one of the best Broadway Shows in New York City.

Stroll Stone Street

There’s not too many streets in America that are older than the country itself. Stone Street was the first street in then New Amsterdam to be cobbled, a big deal back then when the dutch ran New York.

Oozing old-world charm, this short street is bordered by restaurants on both sides, making it easy to linger at an outdoor patio with pints in hand. Some of the best bars in the financial district along with many of the liveliest happy hours.

Stone Street is adorned with hanging lights and in the warmer seasons is filled with picnic tables full of locals enjoying drinks and swapping stories. Pop into any of the bars, grab a pint, and enjoy!

Take in the Views from the One World Observatory

• Website: One World Observatory
• Address: 17 West St, New York

Reaching an impressive height of 1,776 feet (this is not a coincidence, America declared independence in 1776), the One World Trade Center (sometimes called the Freedom Tower), is the tallest building in America and the sixth tallest building in the world.

Taking in the panoramic views from the One World Trade Center observation deck is one of the most popular things to do in the Financial District. If you’re in a celebratory mood you should visit One Dine, the 101st floor restaurant for a drinks.

Even if you don’t make it to the observatory, just marveling at this building from below is a great Financial District activity that should be on any first-timers list.

You May Enjoy Reading: 18 Jaw-Dropping Skyline Views of New York City (For All Budgets)

Explore the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

• Website: 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York

Sometimes I’m hesitant to mention visiting the 9/11 Museum because it’s such an emotional experience (you can’t help but cry). The museum pays tribute to the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001. I consider this one of the most memorable things to do in the Financial District, as long as you can emotionally brace yourself.

The pace of the visit always feels rightfully slow, as visitors contemplate the gravity of the situation. Whether you go to the museum of not, make sure to take in the grandeur of the moving9/11 Memorial (right next to the museum).

The 9/11 Memorial is made of two reflecting pools that sit atop the footprints of the destroyed Twin Towers. You’ll see cascading waterfalls in both cavities, which symbolize a void that can never be filled. All the while, the One World Trade Center looms in the background and acts as a beacon for a resilient future.

Toast George Washington at Fraunces Tavern

• Website: Fraunces Tavern
• Address: 54 Pearl St, New York

Fraunces Tavern dates back to 1762, making it the oldest restaurant in New York City. It’s famous for being the place where the Sons of Liberty Secret Society met during colonial days. This is also where negotiations were made for British surrender.

After the end of the Revolutionary War, Fraunces Tavern hosted a victory feast, which is where George Washington bid an emotional farewell to his commanding officers. Needless to say, enjoying a pint (or co*cktail) at Fraunces Tavern is one of the coolest things to do in the Financial District, if not for the history alone.

Fraunces is the only place I’m aware of that’s still around where you can go and say you’ve enjoyed a pint at the same tavern as Washington himself.

Fraunces Tavern makes an appearance on our list of the 20 Best Scotch Whisky Bars in New York City.

Learn About Federal Hall

• Website: Federal Hall
• Address: 26 Wall St, New York

Brimming with American history, Federal Hall is, quite literally, the birthplace of our country. This iconic building stands where the original 1700s City Hall once did. The original building served as New York City’s first City Hall and housed the first US Congress.

Famous for being the place where George Washington took the oath as the first President of the United States in 1789, Federal Hall now serves as a museum and memorial to the nation’s early history and the birth of American government. Entry is free and tours are offered by the National Park Service (advanced-booking required).

Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing artifacts from colonial times and learn about pivotal historic events that occurred in the area. Any way you slice it, swinging by Federal Hall is one of the best things to do in the Financial District for history buffs.

Tour City Hall

• Website: New York City Hall
• Address: City Hall Park, New York, NY 10007

The stunning City Hall building, with its elegant French Renaissance design, dates back to the early 19th century, making it one of the oldest functioning city halls in the country. Beyond its architectural beauty, City Hall is rich in political and historical significance, having been the stage for countless important decisions and events in NYC’s history.

All this to say, popping in for a tour is a great educational activity while visiting the Financial District. Group tours are available Tuesdays and individual tours are available Wednesdays, but you’ll have to call to make a reservation (they book up quickly!). The surrounding City Hall Park adds a touch of greenery and tranquility amidst the bustling city, pop in if you’re feeling overwhelmed by skyscrapers.

Learn About Bowling Green Park

• Website: Bowling Green
• Location: Broadway and Whitehall St.

Bowling Green is the oldest park in New York City and a must-see for history buffs. The reason? In 1776, shortly after George Washington read the Declaration of Independence, American soldiers rushed to the park to topple the statue of King George III.

If you swing by the park while visiting the Financial District, you can touch the original fence installed by the British in 1773 (250 years ago), which is one of the most unique things to do in the Financial District.

Visit the National Museum of the American Indian

• Website: National Museum of the American Indian
• Address: 1 Bowling Green, New York

Housed in the historic Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, the National Museum of the American Indian offers a profound look into the diverse history, art, and cultures of Native American peoples. From traditional clothing and pottery to weapons and artwork, the museum’s collection spans over 12,000 years of history in the Western Hemisphere.

The National Museum of the American Indian provides an invaluable experience through thought-provoking exhibitions, live performances and film screenings. The museum strives to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures and their significant contributions to the world.

The best part? There’s no admission fee, which means visiting the museum is one of the best free things to do in the Financial District.

Explore the South Street Seaport

• Website: South Street Seaport
• Address: 19 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038

The South Street Seaport is a revitalized historic area located near the East River in Lower Manhattan. Offering a unique blend of old and new, cobblestone streets and restored 19th-century buildings coexist with modern shops, restaurants and bars.

The Seaport is also rich in maritime history, featuring the South Street Seaport Museum, historic ships, and breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River. Whether you’re exploring its historic ships or simply soaking in the scenic waterfront atmosphere, South Street Seaport is a great activity in the Financial District.

Soak Up the Breathtaking Views at Manhatta

• Website: Manhatta
• Address: 28 Liberty Street (60th Floor)

Soaring high on the 60th floor in the heart of the Financial District, Manhatta is a classy co*cktail bar that’s worth a detour. This elegant bar serves up a diverse range of meticulously crafted co*cktails, each a perfect blend of classic and contemporary flavors.

The ambiance is sophisticated yet inviting, making it an ideal spot for both special occasions and casual after-work drinks. The real showstopper is the panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline. Between the breathtaking panoramic views and expertly-crafted co*cktails, popping in for drinks at Manhattan is one of the most romantic things to do in the Financial District.

Relax at Battery Park

• Address: Battery Park, New York, New York 10004

Located at the southernmost tip of Manhattan, Battery Park offers great views of Brooklyn, Governors Island, Staten Island, and New Jersey. The best view though? The Statue of Liberty, especially at sunset.

The park is named after the artillery batteries that were created to protect the settlements on Manhattan. Some of these batteries were used to fire on the British during the Revolutionary War. The park is much more peaceful now and visiting is one of the most relaxing things to do in the Financial District.

You May Enjoy Reading: 15 ICONIC New York City Parks Locals Love

Enjoy co*cktails at The Dead Rabbit

• Website: The Dead Rabbit
• Address: 30 Water St, New York, NY

Named after an Irish gang that once ran rampant in Lower Manhattan, the Dead Rabbit opened in 2013. Hailing from Ireland, the founder, Jack McGarry, wanted to open an upscale co*cktail bar with the atmosphere of an Irish Pub.

This Financial District hot-spot has also earned several awards, most notably #1 Best Bar in the World 2016. It’s hard to go wrong with any drink here, but the hot-toddy on a cold day is hard to beat.

Take a Photo with the Charging Bull

• Address: Bowling Green, New York, New York 10004

The Charging Bull is one of the most popular and iconic attractions in the Financial District attracting tens of thousands of visitors every year.

This 7,000-pound bronze statue is the brainchild of Italian sculptor Arturo Di Modica and was made to symbolize financial optimism and prosperity after the Black Monday stock market crash in 1987. The statue was unlawfully (albeit stealthily) installed in front of the New York Stock Exchange on December 14th, 1989.

The New York City Police Department removed the sculpture, but later reinstalled it in its current location on December 20th, 1989. There’s no denying that the Charging Bull has become capitalism’s adopted mascot.

See The Fearless Girl Statue, Too

• Address: 2-26 Broad St, New York, NY 10005

The Fearless Girl statue in gained fame as a potent symbol of female empowerment and gender equality. Unveiled on International Women’s Day in 2017, this bronze sculpture, depicting a young girl standing firm with hands on hips, faced Wall Street’s Charging Bull.

Created by artist Kristen Visbal, the statue originally intended to promote gender diversity in the business world. It quickly resonated globally, symbolizing the strength and empowerment of women, especially young girls. The Fearless Girl’s defiant stance against the iconic symbol of financial power has inspired many replicas across the world, including Oslo, Melbourne, and London.

Interesting background: The Fearless Girl statue was moved from its original location facing the Charging Bull to a new spot in front of the New York Stock Exchange. The reason? Arturo Di Modica (who designed the Charging Bull) felt the statue’s placement villainized the bull, so the Fearless Girl Statue was moved to the new location.

Pop Into the Famous Oculus Mall

• Website: The Oculus Mall
• Address: 185 Greenwich St, New York

Westfield World Trade Center, more commonly known as the Oculus, is the largest shopping mall in Manhattan and an active subway hub.

Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, the stunning dove-like structure represents a phoenix rising from the ashes, a poignant tribute to the rebirth of the area post-9/11.

Inside, the Oculus is spacious and bright, full of retail stores, cafes and restaurants. Plus, there’s public restrooms which are hard to come by in NYC, so take advantage!

Admittedly, you can keep your visit short, simply pop in for photos. Don’t skip visiting though because it’s one of the most interesting things to see in the Financial District.

Visiting the Financial District (Post Summary)

• Take in the Panoramic Views at Manhatta
• Visit Federal Hall
• Take a Photo on Stone Street
• Hang out at Bowling Green
• Have a drink at Fraunces Tavern
• Visit the National Museum of the American Indian
• Visit City Hall
• Celebrate an Occasion at Overstory
• Walk South Street Seaport
• Hang out at the Battery
• Grab a drink at the Dead Rabbit
• Visit the New York Stock Exchange
• Visit the Charging Bull
• And Fearless Girl
• Shop at the Oculus
• Visit Trinity Church
• Pay Your Respects at the 9/11 Memorial
• Visit the One World Observatory

Visiting the Financial District (FAQs)

More Helpful Financial District Guides

• Where to Eat in the Financial District: 20 Best Restaurants in the Financial District (FiDi)
• The Best Drinks in the Financial District: 20 Fantastic Bars in the Financial District
• Best Brunch in FiDi: 15 Best Spots to Grab Brunch in The Financial District NYC
• The Best Coffee Shops in Financial District: 10 Great Financial District Cafes Serving the Best Coffee
• Coffee Photo Shoots: 20 Cute Cafes in New York City (Instagram Worthy Spots)

Financial District Best Things to Do (Map)

And there you have it folks! My list of the best things to do in the Financial District.

Cheers!